Left-handed pitcher A.J. Minter has signed a two-year, $22 million contract with the New York Mets, finalized on Thursday.
Minter’s contract allows him to opt out after the 2025 World Series to become a free agent again.
At 31 years old, Minter has spent his entire eight-year major league career with the Atlanta Braves. Over 384 appearances, all in relief, he has a record of 24-29 with a 3.28 ERA and 36 saves. Last season, Minter played 39 games, finishing with a 5-4 record, a 2.62 ERA, and one save. However, he underwent season-ending hip surgery in August.
Doctors discovered several issues with his left hip, including a torn labrum, a hip impingement, and a lesion on his femur. The surgery was necessary to fix these problems.
Past Performance
Minter has proven himself as a reliable reliever, earning 422 career strikeouts in 348 2/3 innings. He reached a career-high of 15 saves in 2018 and had 10 saves in 2023. Minter was part of the Braves’ bullpen that played a key role in their 2021 World Series win. He has a 3-1 postseason record with a 2.88 ERA over 25 innings and 36 strikeouts in 20 postseason games.
The Mets have been busy improving their pitching staff, signing free agents like Sean Manaea, Frankie Montas, Griffin Canning, and former All-Star closer Clay Holmes. However, the bullpen still needed strengthening, and Minter provides a reliable left-handed option to set up star closer Edwin Díaz.
Minter’s contract includes a $1 million signing bonus and a $10 million salary for 2024. He also has an $11 million player option for 2026. Minter can earn additional bonuses, including $100,000 for being named World Series MVP, and various other incentives for achieving high rankings in awards like the All-Star game, Cy Young, and Gold Glove.
Jesse Winker Signs with the Mets
In addition to Minter, the Mets signed outfielder and designated hitter Jesse Winker to a $7.5 million, one-year contract. These moves suggest the Mets may be focusing their resources elsewhere, possibly indicating they won’t re-sign fan favorite Pete Alonso.
Winker’s contract includes a $1 million signing bonus, a $6.5 million salary, and performance bonuses based on plate appearances, totaling up to $1.5 million. He also has various bonus incentives for achievements such as MVP, All-Star selection, or winning a Gold Glove.
